Always keep a “cold zone” on your grill.

In case of flare-ups, or if you think a meat is cooking too fast, you’ll have a “cold zone” to move the meat to while you make adjustments.

On a charcoal grill, this may involve building your hot fire with most of the coals to the left side for high heat, and some coals in the middle for lower heat, while you have no coals on the right side for the “cold zone”. This technique is also known as a “3 Zone Fire”.

On a gas grill, you can accomplish this by having one burner OFF to create the “cold zone”.

What do you think about this “True Rule”? Do you practice the multi-zone method of building your fire? Do you have a “cold zone” for safety?

We also encourage you to add your own “True Rule of Grilling”. All submissions will be considered and the end result of this discussion will be added to the Grillerhood on Facebook by McCormick.

What is the ONE THING you think is an important grilling tip or technique?

We’ve partnered with McCormick® Grill Mates® and their Grillerhood community on Facebook to bring you the best in grilling seasonings, easy recipes, and grilling techniques. We’ll be learning from the experts, and sharing tips and tricks from people like you.

What sets grillers apart from ordinary cooks? It’s a secret. Or rather, it’s their secrets — those tips, tricks and flavors that turn good food into grilled greatness. That’s why McCormick® Grill Mates® created “The Grillerhood,” the first-ever social media hub that allows grilling experts to share their secrets with each other — whether they’re contributing to the ultimate crowd-sourced grilling guidebook, sharing inspiring recipes or competing for the title of the ultimate “Grill Mayor.”

True Rule #1 – “YOU SHALL BE A DECENT HOST AND SERVE GUESTS THE WELL DONE MEAT THEY’VE ASKED FOR. BUT BE A GREAT GRILLER AND OFFER THEM A TASTE OF YOUR PERFECT STEAK.”

The Grillerhood is a one-stop grilling resource. This season, the central mission for the community is to create the ultimate crowd-sourced grilling guidebook: “True Rules of Grilling.” Through real-time conversation, Facebook polls and expert input, the “True Rules of Grilling” will compile the wisdom and secrets of the grilling community into the first-ever, definitive compendium of how, what and why to grill.

Members of The Grillerhood are also encouraged to share their own “True Rules” — the secrets that take their grilling to the next level — for the opportunity to be declared the ultimate “Grill Mayor.” Beginning May 21, contestants simply upload a photo and their favorite grilling tip to FoodNetwork.com/grillmayor for a chance to win a round trip for two to New York, including a personal tour of the Food Network Kitchens, where winners can discover even more grilling secrets. Three grand prizes will be awarded. Deadline is 7/31/12.

How can you win? Entry is easy! For EACH of the following steps, you will earn ONE entry into the contest. The more you do, the better your chances are at winning. Simply leave a Comment below (that’s 1 automatic entry), telling us which steps you did. We WILL check. One entry per person please (includes all 5 steps).

1. Microwave potatoes on HIGH 7 minutes or until almost tender, turning potatoes over
halfway through cooking. Let stand 2 minutes. Cut potatoes into wedges. Toss with 1 tablespoon of the Seasoning and oil.

3. Grill burgers over medium heat 4 to 6 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F). Grill potato wedges 2 minutes per side or until lightly browned and grill marks appear. Serve burgers on toasted rolls. Garnish with desired toppings and condiments. Serve with potato wedges.
Makes 4 servings.